Tag: Dog Breeds

In 1886, the American Kennel Club registered the bulldog. The bulldog is a good-natured dog who loves everyone. He is a great family dog with a laid-back attitude.

The word “bulldog” may mean many different things to different people. That’s because there are many different types of bulldogs to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and appearance. In general, these dogs are medium sized, but a lot heavier than you might think.

Here are the different types of bulldogs.

English bulldog

French bulldog

American bulldog

Olde English bulldog

All bulldogs share a common background. Their ancestors were used for bull baiting. That’s when a bull is tethered while the bulldog grabs the bull by the nose and pins it to the ground. So it makes sense that these dogs had a determined nature. They also had stocky bodies, large heads and strong jaws.

While these different types of bulldogs share a common background, they have different histories, different appearances and different temperaments.

Types of English Bulldogs

People often wonder about the types of English bulldogs. In actuality, there are no different types of English bulldogs. While other types of bulldogs, like the American bulldog, have different types, there is only one type of English bulldog.

But when it comes to personality and temperament, there are many types of English bulldogs. Some types of English bulldogs are social and people oriented. Others are dependable and predictable. And some types of English bulldogs are more of a watchdog.

The English bulldog, also known as the British bulldog, originated in the British Isles. It descended from the ancient Asiatic mastiff. It is a medium size dog with a compact body. Typically, an English bulldog will stand about 16 inches tall and weigh somewhere between 50 to 55 pounds.

This type of bulldog is brawny. This little powerhouse has a large head and body. The forehead of the English bulldog is full of wrinkles. (You should clean these wrinkles on a regular basis to avoid skin infections.) These dogs have a wide, short muzzle. The face of an English bulldog is very short with a flattened appearance. Another trademark characteristic of the English bulldog is that the lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw, giving it an underbite and a comical grin.

English bulldogs have a winning personality. They love their people and they get along with children splendidly. They are very kind and devoted to their family members, but they may act aggressively towards strangers. English bulldogs are eager to please with a gentle, sweet nature, which makes it a wonderful family pet. They love being with their humans.

Originally bred for bull baiting, this breed is courageous with excellent guarding skills. They can be aggressive to unknown dogs.

Johnson American Bulldogs and Scott American Bulldogs: What’s the Difference?

While most people have heard of the English bulldog and the French bulldog, many may not know about the American bulldog. The American version of the bulldog has longer legs, and it is faster and agiler than the English bulldog. Muscular, sturdy and powerful, they were used as working dogs for many tasks including guarding and hunting.

The American bulldog is known for its loyalty and bravery. This breed loves children and has strong protective instincts. When they are raised with cats and other dogs they will generally get along well, but they can be aggressive toward unknown cats and dogs. The American bulldog has a lifespan of about 10 to 12 years.

Over time, the American bulldog came very close to extinction. But in the mid-20th century two men decided to restore the American bulldog – John D. Johnson with his stud dog “Dick the Bruiser” and Allen Scott with his stud dog “Mac the Masher”.

Johnson American bulldogs are also known as classic American bulldogs. This type of American bulldog is the larger of the two types. Typically the Johnson American bulldog will stand about 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 90 and 120 pounds.

The Johnson American bulldog has heavier bones, wider chests and boxier heads. It more closely resembles the English bulldog. It has an undershot bite.

The Scott American bulldog is often called the standard American bulldog. It stands about 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder. The Scott American bulldog looks like an oversized white pit bull. The Scott American bulldog has longer legs that are positioned under the body, not out to the side like the Johnson American bulldog. This dog has a longer muzzle. The bite is either level or a slight underbite.

Have you thought about getting a puggle? Puggles are an extremely popular crossbreed. The puggle is a mix between a pug and a beagle. They have the wrinkles of their pug parent and the longer muzzle of a beagle, which makes breathing a lot easier.

The puggle’s double coat is short and smooth, and it is very easy to care for. They need very little grooming and they shed moderately. Brush your puggle once a week to get rid of excess hair. Puggles come in a variety of colors including black, fawn and tan. Some puggles have black masks on the face.

A puggle makes a great pet for first-time dog owners, families and seniors. This is also a good breed for households that have other pets. Because of a tendency to bark or howl, this breed may not be the best choice for those living in an apartment or other noise-controlled environments.

The breed is generally healthy, although they are disposed to some health issues including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cherry eye, hypothyroidism and patellar luxation.

What Is the Puggle Temperament Like?

Because they are a mix of pug and beagle, the puggle’s personality is also a mix of their parents’ temperament. They have inherited their active inquisitive attitude and a love for sniffing from their beagle parent. And they have inherited their sweet nature from their pug parent.

So what is the puggle temperament like? Puggles are sweet, good-natured, playful, perky and energetic little dogs. Puggles will run and play like a puppy even when they are grown up. They are known to be affectionate and they love to cuddle. They love to get lots of attention. Puggles are very social dogs. They get along well with children and other animals. This breed is usually very welcoming to guests and strangers.

The puggle makes a wonderful companion for families and is well suited to living in an apartment or a large home. This breed is lively and energetic so they need exercise. While a puggle can get most of his exercise indoors, puggles enjoy going for a walk or playing in a fenced yard.

The puggle is an intelligent dog that is moderately easy to train. (They do have a tendency to be a bit stubborn.) They respond well to treats and praise as training tools.

Barking is a common complaint with puggles, especially when the dog is left home alone or when it does not get the proper amount of exercise. The puggle is also a digger and a wanderer.

How Long Is a Puggle’s Lifespan?

Pets age much faster than we do. The lifespan of a dog depends on its size or breed. In general, the larger the breed or size of dog the shorter the lifespan. The puggle lifespan is about 10 to 15 years.

When your puggle is a puppy, it will take a little adjustment for him to settle into your home. Taking care of a new puppy can be a lot of work initially, but this is a job that pays for itself in the end. It is very important that you develop good, healthy habits during those first few weeks to set the stage for many happy years of dog ownership to follow.

You’ll have plenty of good years to enjoy each other’s company before your dog has to face the challenges of being a senior. Dogs are considered to be “senior” in the last 25 percent of their lives.

This Is the Information You Need to Know About the Puggle

If you’re looking for puggle information, you’ve come to the right place. Here is the puggle information that can help you to better understand the breed and to decide if it is the right choice for you.

The puggle is a mix between a pug and a beagle. It is believed to be the result of an accidental breeding between these two breeds. The puggle originated in the United States in the 1980s.

The puggle has become a very popular crossbreed because of its fun-loving disposition and its playful nature. This breed brings together the very best characteristics of both parental breeds and dog lovers just love this breed. How much do dog lovers love the puggle? In 2005, the puggle became the most widely owned crossbreed dog ever.

An average puggle stands about 10 to 15 inches high at the shoulder and weighs somewhere between 10 and 30 pounds. Even within the same litter, puggle puppies can look very different from each other. The puggle’s size will depend upon what traits from the two breeds the individual puppy has inherited from his pug and beagle parents. You may get a small 15-pound dog, or you may get a larger 30-pound dog.

Both pugs and beagles are known for their tendency to overeat, so it’s no surprise that puggles are also notorious overeaters. Eating is one of their favorite activities. The problem is that they will consume so much food that they will often become overweight, which is very unhealthy. Because of their tendency to overeat, you should never free feed a puggle. It is recommended that you feed your puggle a high quality dry kibble, monitoring the portion sizes. The daily provision of food can be broken down into two or three meals so that your puggle can eat several times throughout the day. This should help to keep your puggle in good physical shape.

How will you know if your puggle is overweight? Your veterinarian will check your dog’s weight when he sees him. There are also some things you can do to determine if your dog is overweight. When you look down at your dog, you should be able to see a waist. Also, when you touch your dog you should be able to feel his ribs (but you should not be able to see them). If you or your vet determines that your dog is overweight, you will want to cut down on his food and increase his activity.

A staggering 53 percent of American dogs are obese. And while the numbers continue to rise, our dogs are suffering from many obesity-related health issues. And while the national average for canine obesity is alarming for all dogs, if you have a breed that is prone to overeating (like the puggle) you should be even more concerned. To learn more about canine obesity and how to manage it, go to Canine Obesity Management.

If you let your puggle eat too much you may be killing him with kindness. Obesity is a dangerous disease that can cause lasting damage to your dog’s internal organs, bones and joints. And some of the damage done by obesity can never be reversed even with a change in diet and exercise. Some of the damage to your dog’s body will remain for life – and the longer your dog carries around that excess weight, the more severe the damage to the body will become.

It’s important that you feed your dog a healthy diet in the right portion sizes. Many dog owners have wondered about homemade diets for overweight dogs. In many cases, this can be a good option for an obese dog. To learn more, go to Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Overweight Dogs.

If your dog is overweight, he can suffer from osteoarthritis, liver disease, trouble breathing, decreased stamina and heat intolerance. An obese dog can develop high blood pressure, diabetes or cancer. So take good care of your puggle and make sure to watch his diet.

If you’re looking for puggle information, you’ve come to the right place. Here is the puggle information that can help you to better understand the breed and to decide if it is the right choice for you.

The puggle is a mix between a pug and a beagle. It is believed to be the result of an accidental breeding between these two breeds. The puggle originated in the United States in the 1980s.

The puggle has become a very popular crossbreed because of its fun-loving disposition and its playful nature. This breed brings together the very best characteristics of both parental breeds and dog lovers just love this fun breed. How much do dog lovers love the puggle? In 2005, the puggle became the most widely owned crossbreed dog ever. Hollywood stars that have been reported to own puggles include Jake Gyllenhaal, Sylvester Stallone and James Gandolfini.

When a male beagle is bred with a female pug it often results in the death of the puppies as well as the mother. So a puggle is created by breeding a female beagle to a male pug. Today, breeders are also breeding puggles with other puggles and the result is a more standardized dog.

Puggles have the wrinkles of their pug parent and the longer muzzle of a beagle, which makes breathing a lot easier. Some pugs suffer from respiratory issues from its short muzzle, but this is not usually an issue for the puggle.

Puggles are people-friendly and fun-loving with a playful spirit and a desire to please. But at their worst, puggles can be stubborn and uncooperative. To learn more about the puggle go to What Is a Puggle?

Puggle puppies, even from within the same litter, can look very different from each other. The puggle’s size, temperament, coat type and color will vary – it depends on which traits of the two breeds the individual puppy has inherited from its parents. Quite often a puggle will turn out to be a larger dog than people might expect, with some individual puggles growing as large as 30 pounds.

Puggles love being with their human companions. The puggle is by nature a very adaptable dog, but puggles can suffer from separation anxiety when they are left alone for long periods of time. And puggles can be barkers if they take after the beagle side of the family.

Both pugs and beagles have short coats that are easy to care for, and the same thing can be said for the puggle. Just brush the puggle weekly to remove loose hair and bathe him only as needed.

Just like people, dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems. Puggles may be susceptible to the health problems of both the beagle and the pug, which include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and patellar luxation.

Another serious health concern you need to be aware of with the puggle is obesity. Puggles love to eat, so it is important that you monitor their food intake carefully. Never free feed a puggle. Instead, feed the recommended portion size twice a day. This will help to keep your little eating machine in tip-top shape.

Pets age much faster than we do. The lifespan of a dog depends on its size or breed. In general, the larger the breed or size of dog, the shorter the lifespan will be. The puggle lifespan is about 10 to 15 years.

Your puggle will require different types of care throughout his lifetime. When your puggle is a puppy, it will take a little adjustment for him to settle into your home. Taking care of a new puppy can be a lot of work initially, but this is a job that pays for itself in the end. It is very important that you develop good, healthy habits during those first few weeks to set the stage for many happy years of dog ownership to follow.

The first thing you should do when you get a new puggle puppy is to find a good veterinarian. Take your puppy in for a checkup as soon as possible. This will help you to ensure that your young puggle puppy is healthy and it will lay the foundation for a lifelong preventative health routine. Ask your vet to recommend a good food for your new puppy and ask your vet to help you set up a good feeding routine. Set up a vaccination plan and discuss options for parasite control. If your puppy has not already been spayed or neutered, ask about when you should have this done.

A quality puppy food will help set the stage for a healthy lifestyle. Your puppy’s body is growing in critical ways during this time. To best support this growth, you’ll need to choose a food made especially for puppies. Your young puggle should remain on a high quality puppy diet for 9 to 12 months before switching to an adult food. Also, make sure that your puggle always has a good supply of fresh, clean water.

Housetraining is a big concern with a new puppy. Remember to give lots of positive reinforcement when your puppy goes to the bathroom outdoors. Also, remember not to punish your young puppy when he has an indoor accident. It is best to develop a potty schedule for new puppy. Always take your puppy outdoors when you wake up and right before going to bed. Also, take your puppy out right after he eats or drinks a lot of water. When your puppy wakes up from a nap, or after physical activity, head outside for a bathroom break.

Teach your new puggle puppy to be obedient and to be social with other animals and people.

You’ll have plenty of good years to enjoy each other’s company before your puggle has to face the challenges of being a senior. Dogs are considered to be “senior” in the last 25 percent of their lives.

As your dog ages, he becomes increasingly at risk for developing signs of aging. He may slow down, and his body may become predisposed to certain illnesses, like arthritis. By being aware of some concerns for you aging puggle, you can be better prepared to care for your aging companion. To learn more about these medical conditions, go to 14 Common Disorders of Senior Dogs.

Because they are a mix of pug and beagle, the puggle’s personality is also a mix of their parents’ temperament. They have inherited their active inquisitive attitude and a love for sniffing from their beagle parent. And they have inherited their sweet nature from their pug parent.

Pug Characteristics

Pugs pack a lot of love and enthusiasm in a small package. This small, affectionate oriental breed began as guard dogs in ancient Chinese temples. The breed was admitted to the American Kennel Club in 1885.

Pugs have round massive heads with short, square muzzles and deep wrinkles on their foreheads. Pugs have prominent eyes, straight legs, and a tightly twisted tail over the haunches. From the top of the shoulder, the pug stands between 10 and 11 inches tall and weighs between 14 to 22 pounds. The pug is affectionate, loveable and even-tempered. Pugs love company and want to be everyone’s best friend but they will sulk when left out of activities. Pugs love being part of the family.

Beagle Characteristics

The beagle is one of the smallest members of the hound group. Though the precise origin of the beagle is unknown, the breed seems to have been a favorite human companion and vigorous rabbit hunter for centuries. Since the 1950s, the beagle has consistently ranked as one of the top 10 most loved breeds in the United States. The beagle has a playful demeanor and boundless energy. Unfortunately, because of their compact size and friendly temperament, the beagle has been one of the most popular dog breeds to be used for medical research.

Beagles are small, short-haired hounds with long ears. Due to their short hair coat, beagles do not require special grooming. The coat colors are a combination of tan, black and white. This breed is not aggressive. Beagles are friendly and loveable. They are intelligent, good-natured and docile companions. This breed is an excellent choice for families with children. Beagles do not like being left alone for long periods of time. They can easily become frustrated and bored, leading to behavior problems and excessive baying. Beagles love to hunt and have a strong desire to dig.

Puggle Temperament

So what is the puggle temperament like? Puggles are sweet, good-natured, playful, perky and energetic little dogs. Puggles will run and play like a puppy even when they are grown up. They are known to be affectionate and they love to cuddle. They love to get lots of attention. Puggles are very social dogs. They get along well with children and other animals. This breed is usually very welcoming to guests and strangers.

The puggle makes a wonderful companion for families and is well suited to living in an apartment or a large home. This breed is lively and energetic so they need exercise. While a puggle can get most of his exercise indoors, puggles enjoy going for a walk, or playing in a fenced yard.

The puggle is an intelligent dog that is moderately easy to train. (They do have a tendency to be a bit stubborn.) They respond well to treats and praise as training tools.

Barking is a common complaint with puggles, especially when the dog is left home alone or when it does not get the proper amount of exercise. The puggle is also a digger and a wanderer.

Designer dogs or hybrid dogs are becoming more and more popular. If you are an allergy sufferer, consider these hypoallergenic dog mixes. They have little to no shedding, which means less dander to trigger your allergy symptoms.

Labradoodle

A cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle breeds, the Labradoodle was originally developed to be a hypoallergenic guide dog. The Labradoodle comes in three different sizes, depending on the size of the Poodle used for the first generation breeding. The Standard Labradoodle stands 22 to 24 inches high and weighs 50 to 65 pounds. The Medium Labradoodle stands 17 to 20 inches high and weighs 30 to 45 pounds. The Miniature Labradoodle stands 14 to 16 inches and weighs about 15 to 25 pounds. This widely popular dog takes after both of its parents. It is friendly, playful and intelligent. Its shaggy curly coat does not shed. This loving family dog is happiest when she is with her human companions. Intelligent and eager to please, the Labradoodle is easy to train. This is an excellent dog for first-time dog owners. This breed is good with children and other pets. This high-energy breed requires regular daily exercise. This is an intelligent dog that also needs mental stimulation to keep them from becoming destructive. The Labradoodle comes in a wide variety of colors. The Labradoodle was designed to be hypoallergenic, but it really depends on the coat type of the particular dog. If your Labradoodle’s coat is more like a Lab, it is likely to be high shedding, so be careful in choosing the right Labradoodle for you. If this is an issue for you, ask your breeder to help select a puppy that is less likely to shed. Expect to brush your Labradoodle once or twice a week. To learn more about the Labradoodle, go to Choosing a Labradoodle.

Schnoodle

Developed in the 1980s, the Schnoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Schnauzer. It was bred to be a low shedding family dog. Since both the Poodle and the Schnauzer come in three different sizes, the size of the Schnoodle can vary greatly, but the average Schnoodle is small, weighing about 20 pounds. This breed can stand from 10 to 26 inches tall and can weigh from 6 to 75 pounds. Schnoodles have no to low shedding, so this is a very good breed for people with allergies. This is a smart, cheerful, active breed that is eager to please. This wonderful family pet is playful and fun-loving. This dog loves to play with children and to be the center of attention. He is a loyal watchdog like the Schnauzer, and he is smart and affectionate like a Poodle. They get along well with other family pets. The Schnoodle will like the entire family but often will bond with one member more than the others. They love being around their people and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. This high-energy breed requires plenty of daily exercise. And because the dog is so intelligent, it also requires plenty of mental stimulation to avoid destructive behaviors. An apartment can be a good home for a small Schnoodle, but a large Schnoodle needs a home with a fenced yard. They make very good watchdogs because they are protective of their families. You will need to brush your Schnoodle once or twice a week. To learn more about the Schnoodle, go to Choosing a Schnoodle.

Yorkipoo

This fun-loving designer dog is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy or Miniature Poodle. It stands between 7 and 15 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 3 and 14 pounds. The life expectancy for this breed is 10 to 15 years. This is an excellent companion dog – loving and fun, he loves being in the company of his family. This is also a good dog for allergy sufferers because it has low dander and is low shedding. This breed is intelligent, making Yorkipoos quick learners – although they do have a stubborn streak. With a gentle and loving disposition, Yorkipoos are good with the elderly and make good therapy dogs. And while they do well with older children, this breed is not recommended for homes with small children. They may suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. The Yorkipoo makes a good watchdog. Active and energetic, this breed requires daily exercise. The Yorkipoo is known to bark a lot, although he can be trained to bark less. They usually do well with other pets. The silky coat requires daily brushing and comes in a variety of colors.

Maltipoo

A cross between the Maltese and a Toy or Miniature Poodle, the Maltipoo stands about 8 to 14 inches high and weighs between 5 and 20 pounds. The life expectancy for this breed is about 10 to 13 years. This designer dog is gentle and very affectionate, making it a good therapy dog. They are great with the elderly and with older children who know how to handle them carefully. The Maltipoo is among the more popular of the designer breeds and prized by celebrities. Maltipoos can get along with other dogs and pets. Since both the Maltese and the Poodle are hypoallergenic dogs, the Maltipoo sheds very little and is a good choice for people who suffer from allergies. The intelligent Maltipoo is easy to train and is a good dog for first-time dog owners. These fun-loving dogs love being with people and are not a good choice for homes where they will be left alone for long periods of time. A good lap dog, the Maltipoo can be a little barker, so he makes a good watchdog, but he may not be a good choice for apartments or housing where there are noise restrictions. They are active and energetic, needing daily exercise. The Maltipoo’s fluffy coat is low shedding and low dander. It comes in a variety of colors with the most common being cream and white. This dog requires daily brushing.

Cockapoo

The Cockapoo comes in a variety of sizes. The Teacup size stands under 10 inches tall and weighs about 6 pounds. The Toy Cockapoo stands about 10 inches tall and can weigh up to 12 pounds. The Miniature Cockapoo stands between 11 and 14 inches high and weighs 13 to 18 pounds. The Standard Cockapoo stands at least 15 inches high and weighs more than 19 pounds. A cross between the Poodle and the Cocker Spaniel, this dog loves people, children, other dogs, and pets. This happy-go-lucky dog is the first designer dog, dating back to the 1960s. A real companion dog, the Cockapoo is very affectionate and will follow you around. He loves being around his family and is known to suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time, which can lead to excessive barking and destructive behaviors. He is very outgoing and gets along with everyone. This lapdog makes a good therapy dog. The Cockapoo is intelligent and easy to train. This breed hardly sheds at all, making it a good choice for people who suffer from allergies; however, the Cockapoo requires daily brushing. The breed has moderate energy levels and requires daily exercise. To learn more about the Cockapoo, go to Choosing a Cockapoo.

Hypoallergenic dogs are a good choice for people with pet allergies. They shed very little, which means there is less dander in the house to stir up allergies. These medium-size hypoallergenic dogs make great additions to any family. They’re not too big and not too small, and they’re easy on your allergies. So if you’re looking for medium dogs that don’t shed, take a look at these wonderful canines.

Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier stands about 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 25 to 27 pounds. It has a life expectancy of about 12 to 16 years. This is an active, energetic, spunky dog. This breed of terrier is easy to train and makes a good watchdog. They may become excessive barkers if not trained from an early age. The goal of this fearless dog is to protect their loved ones. This is a great family dog that is wonderful with children, however, they do not do well with other dogs. They will not back down from a challenge and are known to take on much larger dogs. The Irish Terrier can get along with cats if raised with them from puppyhood, but because of their strong hunting drive, they are not good with small animals like hamsters. This is an intelligent dog, but the Irish Terrier tends to be independent and a bit stubborn. This athletic breed requires daily exercise and a job to keep them occupied so they do not bark or become destructive. The Irish Terrier has a tight, wiry coat that requires regular grooming. To learn more about the Irish Terrier, go to Choosing an Irish Terrier.

Kerry Blue Terrier

The Kerry Blue Terrier stands between 17 and 19 inches high at the shoulder and weighs between 33 and 40 pounds. This working breed comes from Ireland and has a life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. This terrier breed has soft, thick, wavy hair with little to no shedding, however, it does require daily brushing to avoid mats. The unique coloring of this breed is a blue-gray, although puppies start out black transitioning to their blue-gray coat at about 18 months of age. The Kerry Blue Terrier is a very good watchdog. They are smart and do very well with training. However, this breed can be strong-willed, so it will take a firm hand at training. Because of this, the breed may not be the best choice for the first-time dog owner. This is a good family dog that bonds with all members of the family, and they are great with children. Energetic and playful, the Kerry Blue Terrier needs plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. They do best when they have a job to occupy them, so they won’t resort to barking or destructive behavior. Like all terriers, he loves to dig and chase and has a high prey drive. This breed has a tendency to chase smaller animals. They are not especially good with other dogs. They can become aggressive with other dogs and are not known to back down from a fight. To learn more about the Kerry Blue Terrier, go to Choosing a Kerry Blue Terrier.

Lakeland Terrier

The Lakeland Terrier stands about 13 to 14 inches high at the shoulder and weighs about 15 to 17 pounds. It has an average life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. The Lakeland Terrier is friendly and affectionate, making it a great companion. They are very intelligent but a bit stubborn when it comes to training. This breed gets along well with people, children, and other dogs but is reserved around strangers. The Lakeland Terrier can be stubborn, independent and difficult to housetrain. Like any terrier, the Lakie is prone to chasing small animals. They should be socialized to cats and other small animals from a young age. This can be an excitable dog with lots of energy. This breed is active and requires a lot of daily exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive. They can also be very possessive about their food and toys. The Lakie excels as a watchdog, but excessive barking can be a problem. Originally bred to hunt foxes and to protect livestock in England, the Lakeland Terrier is energetic and agile with a high prey drive. This breed needs to be brushed several times a week and periodically stripped.

Puli

The Puli stands about 16 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 23 and 38 pounds. This breed has a life expectancy of about 10 to 15 years. The Puli has a unique corded coat that looks like a giant mop. But the Puli is not born with his dreadlocks. Rather, the adult coat grows in at about one year of age. The fluffy coat must be separated by hand into cords. His corded coat makes the Puli look much bigger than he actually is. The coat comes in solid colors including black, gray, white and rusty black. The Puli is originally from the country of Hungary, though its exact ancestry is not known. This affectionate companion dog is very loyal to its family but wary of strangers. With an instinct to protect and herd, they act as guardians of children and other family pets. They are also very sensitive to the needs of the sick and elderly, making them great therapy dogs. This playful dog enjoys the company of children and gets along with other dogs and family pets. Self-confident and highly intelligent, this dog can also be a bit stubborn. This breed requires lots of exercise and mental stimulation to avoid anxiety and destructive behaviors. They are very vocal and tend to bark. This breed enjoys playing well into their adult years. For more information about the Puli, go to Choosing a Puli.

Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer stands about 17 to 20 inches high at the shoulder and weighs between 30 and 45 pounds. This breed has an average life expectancy of about 13 to 16 years. Native to Germany, the Schnauzer is a good hunter and herder. He makes a wonderful companion dog that will follow you wherever you go. This is an extremely intelligent and active dog that is especially good with children. These dogs insist on being part of the family activities. They are outstanding companions known for their loyalty and love of family. The Schnauzer is not a one-person – it is a true family member. This breed learns quickly and is eager to please, making them very good therapy dogs; but they are known to be stubborn making them a little difficult to housetrain. This affectionate and energetic breed needs daily exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. He is a high energy dog. They love to please their owners and they love to be the center of attention. The outer coat is tight and wiry with a soft undercoat. The wiry coat can be either pure black or salt-and-pepper gray (a mix of black and white) in color, and requires daily brushing. The Standard Schnauzer makes a good watch dog and will alert you to the presence of strangers. They will share their homes with other dogs and cats if they have been socialized to do so at a young age, but they are not to be trusted with small pets such as hamsters. They may be aggressive toward unknown dogs.

Tibetan Terrier

The Tibetan Terrier stands about 14 to 16 inches high at the shoulder and weighs about 20 to 28 pounds. Its average life expectancy is about 12 to 15 years. Although this breed is called a “terrier”, it actually is not related to a terrier. The breed originated in Tibet where it was regarded as a good luck charm. This dog can easily adapt to many different types of household. The Tibetan Terrier is affectionate and loves being with people. They are best suited to homes with school-age children who understand how to properly handle a dog. They do best in homes where they will receive a lot of attention and will not be left alone for long periods of time. Lively and fun-loving, this dog has a very sweet nature. This breed makes a very good therapy dog. The Tibetan Terrier does well with other dogs and pets, especially when they have been raised together. With a lot of energy to burn, these dogs require daily exercise to keep them from becoming bored and resorting to barking or destructive behaviors. This smart breed is easily trained. The Tibetan Terrier’s thick shaggy coat needs to be brushed every day. The Tibetan Terrier is known to bark and makes a good watchdog.

If you’ve got pet allergies but you still want to own a dog, you should look for a breed that does not shed or one that sheds very little. Dander gets trapped on a dog’s fur, so the less the dog sheds, the less dander there is to cause an allergic reaction. Shedding is also a big concern for allergy sufferers because shedded hair can collect other allergens like dust and pollen.

Small hypoallergenic dog breeds make great companions. If you’re looking for small breeds that don’t shed, then take a look at these small hypoallergenic dog breeds.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise descended from the Water Spaniel in the Mediterranean region and is beloved in that area. This small hypoallergenic breed is a truly non-shedding small dog, making it an ideal pet for people with allergies. It has a sweet disposition and is a very popular house dog. The Bichon Frise looks like a little white powder puff. It does not shed a lot but its fluffy white double coat requires regular brushing and trimming. This breed needs daily exercise. This is a playful, happy dog that is extremely affectionate and loving. The Bichon Frise craves attention from its human companions and they are good with children. They do not do well with being left alone for long periods of time. They are intelligent dogs that learn quickly. Because of its small size and nature, the Bichon Frise makes a good apartment dog. To learn more about the Bichon Frise, go to Choosing a Bichon Frise.

Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier stands 10 inches high and weighs about 13 to 14 pounds. The most famous Cairn Terrier is Toto from The Wizard of Oz. Their weather resistant double coat should be brushed regularly, and their coat can be any color except for white. This is a very active breed with lots of energy to burn. They need to run every day. This is an active and adventurous dog. It is important to provide enough daily exercise for your Cairn Terrier so that he will not get bored, which could lead to nuisance behaviors like barking, chewing and digging. This breed is brave and adventurous. They are very intelligent dogs that have a loving, playful nature. They make great companions for both adults and children. This breed is easy to train and they love to learn new tricks. Cairn Terriers are known to have a stubborn streak. They will chase and bark at small animals and they love to dig and swim. To learn more about the Cairn Terrier, go to Choosing a Cairn Terrier.

Coton De Tulear

The Coton De Tulear originated in Madagascar. It is about 8 to 12 inches high and weighs between 8 to 13 pounds. This dog has a life expectancy of about 14 years. The Coton De Tulear is related to the Bichon Frise and the Maltese and it has a long fluffy coat. This breed is hypoallergenic. As a small dog that doesn’t shed, it is a good choice for allergy sufferers. This dog’s coat requires regular grooming. The Coton De Tulear has a gentle nature – it is sweet and cuddly. A real people pleaser, this dog enjoys spending time with his family and his favorite activity is to cuddle up on the couch with you. Cotons are good with older children and children who know how to be gentle. This is a smart dog that quickly learns what is expected of him. The Coton De Tulear requires daily walks and playtime. He is well socialized – he loves being with people and doesn’t like being separated from them. Although they prefer the company of humans, the Coton will get along with other pets.

Havanese

The Havanese stands about 8 to 12 inches high and weighs about 7 to 14 pounds. Its life expectancy is about 12 to 15 years. This small dog originated in Cuba and it is hypoallergenic. This is a loving lap dog that loves being with his family. He will follow you from room to room. But the Havanese does not like being alone and is known to bark and howl when you are gone. This breed gets along with people of all ages and all animals. The Havanese is intelligent and sensitive. They love attention and they closely bond with their human companions. This breed is smart, eager to please and very trainable. For a small breed, the Havanese has a lot of energy and needs a daily walk and playtime. Frequent brushing is recommended to keep your Havanese’s thick, soft coat free from mats.

Maltese

The Maltese stands about 8 to 10 inches high and weighs between 4 to 7 pounds, making it one of the smallest of the toy breeds. The life expectancy of the Maltese is about 12 to 15 years. Although the exact origin of this breed is unknown, it has been around for thousands of years. This is an elegant and energetic small dog. This breed can become very attached to its owners. They dislike being left alone and can suffer from separation anxiety, which can lead to barking and destruction. This dog has a protective nature, making it suspicious of strangers. In an attempt to protect their owners they are known to bark and bite. The Maltese also has an impatient nature, so children and other pets may annoy this breed. Also, because of their small size, they are not recommended for households with small children. This breed is highly intelligent and easily trained. They enjoy a daily walk and playtime and often remain playful even into old age. The Maltese has a long, soft, white coat and low shedding. It needs to be brushed regularly to avoid mats. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing a Maltese.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer stands about 12 to 14 inches high and weighs about 10 to 15 pounds. It was created in Germany using a cross between the Affenpinscher, the Poodle, and the Standard Schnauzer. With a long beard and bushy eyebrows, he is a very popular breed that truly enjoys the company of people. He wants to be next to you all the time. This active and intelligent breed loves to be the center of attention. They are affectionate and make wonderful companions. This is an energetic small dog that needs daily exercise and mental stimulation so they don’t become bored and destructive. They love being in the middle of the action. He is protective of his family and wary of strangers. The Miniature Schnauzer can be noisy, but he’s good with children and other dogs. This intelligent breed is a quick learner, but he can be very stubborn. Their wiry double coat requires regular grooming and many owners prefer a shortcut for easier maintenance.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu (which means “little lion”) stands about 9 to 11 inches high and weighs about 9 to 16 pounds. It has a life expectancy of about 10 to 16 years. This breed was developed in China and has a very recognizable appearance. This lovable dog is playful and loves to be the center of attention. These good-natured dogs will follow you around the house and make very good companions. They are good with people of all ages, children and other pets. The Shih Tzu is friendly, outgoing and affectionate. He is very loyal to his family and makes a great family pet. This small dog has a lot of energy and loves to play. The Shih Tzu may be difficult to housebreak. This is not an extremely active dog. Their soft, silky, long coat needs daily brushing. Many owners decide to keep their dogs in a short puppy cut to make grooming easier. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing a Shih Tzu.

Toy Poodle

The Poodle is one of the most popular house pet breeds. The Toy Poodle is the smallest of the three sizes that Poodles come in. The Toy Poodle stands up to 10 inches tall and weighs about 6 to 9 pounds. Poodles rank as one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are eager to please their owners and very easily trained. This athletic dog needs daily exercise so they do not become bored and resort to destructive behavior. The Toy Poodle is outgoing and friendly with plenty of energy. They enjoy being around people of all ages, including children, and they make great family pets. The Toy Poodle is protective of his home and family.This is a hypoallergenic dog with little to no shedding. Still, you’ll need to brush this dog every day and visit the groomer every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain that fluffy coat. The coat comes in many different colors and the hair is curly and dense. To learn more about the Toy Poodle, go to Choosing a Toy Poodle.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier or “Yorkie” as it is also known is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. The Yorkie stands about 7 to 9 inches high and weighs about 4 to 7 pounds. This breed has a life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. This breed is smart and self-confident. The spunky Yorkie is often the center of attention. These small dogs are big on personality and they make loving companions. Their small size is great for apartment living. This lovable lap dog has lots of energy and loves to play. They do not do well being left alone for long periods of time. The Yorkie will form an extremely close bond with its primary caretaker and is often not good with strangers and other dogs, but they can get along well with other dogs and cats if they are socialized to them at a young age. The Yorkie is bold and fearless, often going after much larger dogs. Because of their small size and their tendency to be aggressive, they are not recommended for families with small children. The Yorkie’s silky coat should be brushed daily. Many owners will clip their Yorkshire Terriers to reduce the amount of grooming needed. This breed can be difficult to housebreak. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing a Yorkshire Terrier.

Dogs that don’t shed or dogs that have low shedding are typically better choices for people who suffer from pet allergies. It is not the actual dog hair that we are allergic to, rather it is the dog’s dander, saliva, urine, skin and other proteins. Allergens, especially dander, get trapped on a dog’s fur and then transferred to the carpet or furniture and eventually into the nose of an allergic person. So the less the dog sheds, the less dander there is to aggravate your allergies. Shedded dog hair can also collect allergens like dust and pollen, which can cause symptoms in allergy suffers.

Looking for large breeds that don’t shed? Then you should take a look at these large hypoallergenic dogs.

Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier originated in England. It is a good working dog that was used to guard the home, for hunting small game and for police work. They excel in protection, agility, and obedience. The Airedale Terrier is an active and athletic dog that needs regular exercise. It is a good idea to have a fenced backyard when owning an Airedale. The Airedale is loyal and protective of their family, but the Airedale is willing to accept outsiders once their family has welcomed them inside. This breed is also good with children. The Airedale is high spirited and should be supervised around cats and small animals. This intelligent dog is highly trainable and should be socialized from a young age. These giant British Terriers have a double coat with soft fur underneath and a coarse top coat that requires regular brushing. Because it is the largest of the terriers, the Airedale has been given the nickname “King of the Terriers.” This breed stands about 23 inches tall and weighs about 45 pounds. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing an Airedale.

Bouvier Des Flandres

This breed is a working dog. It is also a very good guard and police dog that was used as an army dog during the two World Wars, carrying messages and hunting out the wounded. The Bouvier Des Flandres originated in Belgium and France and was introduced to North America in the 1930s. This loyal breed is protective of the children in his herd. They learn commands easily but some Bouviers can be strong willed with less assertive owners. The breed can be aggressive towards strangers. The Bouvier needs regular exercise and at least two long walks every day. Its long, shaggy coat requires regular brushing and trimming. For a large dog, this breed is quite agile and light on its feet. This is a large dog measuring 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weighing about 90 pounds. Health concerns for this breed include hip dysplasia.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer averages about 23 to 27 inches high and weighs between 65 to 100 pounds. The males are typically larger than the females. This breed has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years. This handsome bearded dog has a wiry and dense double coat that requires regular brushing and occasional grooming. It can be either black or salt and pepper gray in color. The Giant Schnauzer was developed in Germany in the late 1800s as a working farm dog. It was originally bred by cattlemen to move livestock to market. During WWI, this breed was trained as police dogs. This fiercely loyal breed is very protective of their human companions. This breed makes an excellent guard dog or watchdog. A very willful breed, the Giant Schnauzer should be trained and socialized from a young age. This is an active dog that needs daily exercise. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing a Giant Schnauzer.

Irish Water Spaniel

Standing between 21 and 24 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 45 and 65 pounds, this large dog is known for its unusual tail – it has curly hair on the first four inches from the base of the tail, and the rest of the tail is nearly hairless. This is an intelligent breed. The Irish Water Spaniel was bred as a bird dog. Unlike other spaniels, this breed was not developed to flush out birds, but rather to jump into the frigid waters of Ireland to retrieve dead or wounded fowl. This breed loves the water. They have webbed feet and their coat is naturally water resistant. The Irish Water Spaniel has a double coat with tight ringlets. Its tight curly coat should be brushed and groomed regularly to prevent matting. This loving dog bonds closely with their family and is anxious to please, but they are naturally reserved towards strangers. The Irish Water Spaniel requires plenty of social interaction, toys, and playtime to keep them entertained. This dog would be happy with a large fenced backyard. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing an Irish Water Spaniel.

Komondor

The Komondor stands about 25 to 31 inches tall and weighs about 70 to 80 pounds. This breed looks like a big dust mop with a long, soft white coat that is corded into dreadlocks. This coat would help him to blend in with sheep if he were caring for them. A big muscular dog, the Komondor comes from Hungary. This breed is at its best when it is working. If they are left without a job to do they become bored quickly. Traditionally this breed has been used as a herder and a police dog. A great guardian, the Komondor is loyal, devoted and protective. He tends to protect his family, his home and his possessions. He is easily trained but because of his protective nature, he may not be gentle enough for every family. The Komondor enjoys long daily walks and outdoor country living. This is an independent thinker so begin training and socialization early and establish yourself as the dominant member of the pack. Common health problems in the Komondor are hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, and skin problems.

Saluki

The Saluki stands about 23 to 28 inches high and weighs up to 65 pounds. Female Salukis can be much smaller. One of the world’s oldest breeds, Salukis were never sold – they were given as gifts. This breed can have either a smooth or feathered coat which is short and close. The coat is smooth, soft and silky. The Saluki requires occasional brushing, maybe once a week. Salukis are friendly, loving and gentle. They do not tolerate roughhousing and do better with older, gentle children. This breed is devoted to its family members and often has one special person. Salukis become so attached to their family members that they can become depressed if left alone for long periods of time. The Saluki has a strong hunting instinct. This breed needs room to exercise in a large fenced yard.

Standard Poodle

The Standard Poodle stands about 15 inches high at the shoulders and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. This breed has a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. The Poodle has been used in France and Germany since the 1400s for hunting and retrieving, as water dogs and as companions. This breed was known as a circus trick dog and it was also known for its ability to sniff out the famous truffle mushrooms. Poodles have webbed feet. They have thick, curly, short hair. Poodles should be brushed on a daily basis and they need regular grooming. This is a very intelligent breed that learns quickly. They are very friendly dogs and make great companions. Poodles get along well with children and they enjoy being around other people and animals. They are very obedient. The Poodle is very active and requires a healthy amount of daily exercise. Health concerns for this breed includes progressive retinal atrophy, digestive tract disorders, skin problems and heart problems. To learn more about this breed, go to Choosing a Standard Poodle.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Also known as a Griff, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon stands about 20 to 24 inches high and weighs 50 to 60 pounds. This breed came into existence in Europe in the mid to late 1800s. This active dog is a strong swimmer and an excellent water retriever. It has a rough double coat that needs to be brushed twice a week. This is a graceful dog. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is friendly and easy to train. It is an intelligent and obedient dog that is deeply devoted to his family. This breed makes a great family pet. Extremely sociable, the Griff gets along well with children and other dogs, but does not do well with cats and other small pets. This breed does well in an active country setting with plenty of room for running.

Mixed Breeds

If a breed is hypoallergenic, you may wonder if mixed breeds of these dogs also have that same trait. The answer is, maybe. It depends on which traits the hybrid dog has inherited from which parent. In fact, different puppies in the same litter may or may not be hypoallergenic, depending on which type of coat they have inherited.